Associated Products
Purchased Lives: The American Slave Trade from 1808 to 1865 (object version) (Exhibition)Title: Purchased Lives: The American Slave Trade from 1808 to 1865 (object version)
Curator: Erin Greenwald
Abstract: Purchased Lives explores the far-reaching economic and heartbreaking personal impact of the domestic slave trade. Period broadsides, paintings, and prints illustrate the trade's public image, while objects and first-person accounts--including that of Solomon Northup, who spent twelve years illegally enslaved in Louisiana--speak to the experiences of those whose lives were bought and sold. Curated and originally hosted by The Historic New Orleans Collection with the subtitle New Orleans and the Domestic Slave Trade, 1808-1865,, this exhibition traveled to three additional sites between summer 2016 and summer 2017: the Alexandria Museum of Art in Alexandria, Louisiana (June 3-August 20, 2016); National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, Tennessee (September 12-November 27, 2016); and the Bullock Texas State History Museum in Austin, Texas (February 11-July 9, 2017).
Year: 2015
"A Kidnapped Life: Solomon Northup's Experience in of Slavery in the Red River Valley"-AMoA (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: "A Kidnapped Life: Solomon Northup's Experience in of Slavery in the Red River Valley"-AMoA
Abstract: Panel discussion with Louisiana State University at Alexandria faculty members and Alexandria Museum of Art Executive Director focused on research into Solomon Northup's experience in Louisiana.
Author: Ginger Jones
Author: Jerry Sanson
Author: Christopher Stacey
Author: Catherine Pears
Date: 06/23/2016
Location: Alexandria Museum of Art, 933 Second Street, Alexandria, Louisiana 71301
"Finding Rebecca: Or, How an Enslaved Girl from New Orleans Became an Abolitionist Icon"-AMoA (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: "Finding Rebecca: Or, How an Enslaved Girl from New Orleans Became an Abolitionist Icon"-AMoA
Abstract: Some of the most widely circulated abolitionist images in the Civil War era were carte-de-visite portraits of formerly enslaved people from New Orleans (three of these images are featured in Purchased Lives). Some of the children in the group were so light skinned that their sponsors and the press declared them "white slaves." The oldest girl, Rebecca Huger, was the most frequently photographed. In "Finding Rebecca" Mary Niall Mitchell (University of New Orleans) explores what is known of Rebecca's life before and after her photograph was taken and how she came to represent both slavery and its demise during the Civil War.
Author: Mary Niall Mitchell
Date: 7/14/2016
Location: Alexandria Museum of Art, 933 Second Street, Alexandria, Louisiana 71301
"Towards a Lasting Freedom: Navigating the Landscape of Race in Reconstruction-Era New Orleans"-AMoA (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: "Towards a Lasting Freedom: Navigating the Landscape of Race in Reconstruction-Era New Orleans"-AMoA
Abstract: Justin Nystrom (Loyola University-New Orleans) explores the meanings of freedom in postbellum New Orleans and discusses how African Americans struggled to piece together their lives in an age of great social and political upheaval.
Author: Justin Nystrom
Date: 07/14/2017
Location: Alexandria Museum of Art, 933 Second Street, Alexandria, Louisiana 71301
"A Stirring Song Sung Heroic: African Americans from Slavery to Freedom, 1619-1865 and Beyond"-AMoA (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: "A Stirring Song Sung Heroic: African Americans from Slavery to Freedom, 1619-1865 and Beyond"-AMoA
Abstract: This is an illustrated lecture consisting of black and white silver gelatin prints and contemporary historical material looking at the broad sweep of African American history. The photographs, made over four decades by Williams (Haverford College), document mostly anonymous, unheralded, and uncelebrated places in the United States, where Americans--black and white--determined the meaning of freedom. Historical prints, newspapers, and other ephemera provide a historical and visual context for the photographs.
Author: William E. Williams
Date: 8/13/2016
Location: Alexandria Museum of Art, 933 Second Street, Alexandria, Louisiana 71301
"Archiving Lives: The Documents That Told Solomon Northup's Story"-AMoA (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: "Archiving Lives: The Documents That Told Solomon Northup's Story"-AMoA
Abstract: Riggs (LSU-Alexandria) and Melancon discuss their work documenting the Solomon Northup Trail using archives and Sue Eakin's edition of Twelve Years a Slave.
Author: Meredith Melancon
Author: Michelle Riggs
Date: 8/4/2016
Location: Epps House, Louisiana State University Alexandria Campus
Twelve Years a Slave Book Club-AMoA (Conference/Institute/Seminar)Title: Twelve Years a Slave Book Club-AMoA
Author: Ginger Jones
Author: Jerry Sanson
Abstract: LSU-A professors lead a book club discussion of one of the most important slave narratives of all time.
Date Range: 7/2/2016
Location: Epps House, Louisiana State University at Alexandria campus
Help Me to Find My People Book Club-AMoA (Conference/Institute/Seminar)Title: Help Me to Find My People Book Club-AMoA
Author: Erin Greenwald
Abstract: Purchased Lives curator leads book club discussion of Heather Andrea Williams's Help Me to Find My People: The African American Search for Family Lost in Slavery.
Date Range: 7/16/2016
Location: Alexandria Museum of Art
Purchased Lives Teachers' Workshop-AMoA (Conference/Institute/Seminar)Title: Purchased Lives Teachers' Workshop-AMoA
Author: Daphne Derven
Author: Erin Greenwald
Author: Lori Boyer
Author: Adam Rothman
Abstract: This one-day professional development workshop for educators of grades 7–12 will begin with an in-depth discussion of the scholarship and findings on America and the domestic slave trade from 1808 to 1865, to enhance and expand content knowledge. Curator and project director Erin Greenwald will present the lecture “Taking on the Tough Stuff of History: New Orleans and the Domestic Slave Trade,” followed by a guided tour of the exhibition. The lesson plans and ancillary materials will be the basis for a detailed discussion and exercises designed to build pedagogical strategies and techniques for classroom use. The workshop will wrap up with a lecture by humanities scholar, Adam Rothman (Georgetown), and an open forum discussion on effective teaching about human rights, enslavement, resistance, and controversy.
Date Range: 7/14/2016
Location: Alexandria Museum of Art, 933 Second Street, Alexandria, Louisiana 71301
"Franklin, Armfield, and Ballard: The Men Who Made the Domestic Slave Trade into Big Business"-NCRM (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: "Franklin, Armfield, and Ballard: The Men Who Made the Domestic Slave Trade into Big Business"-NCRM
Abstract: Rothman (University of Alabama) takes a biographical journey through the business of three slave traders who forged economic ties in Southern cities that fueled the cotton industry and brought devastation to thousands of enslaved families.
Author: Joshua Rothman
Date: 9/29/2016
Location: National Civil Rights Museum, 450 Mulberry Street, Memphis, Tennessee 38103
"Female Soul Drivers, Lady Flesh Stealers and She-Merchants in the American Slave Trade"-NCRM (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: "Female Soul Drivers, Lady Flesh Stealers and She-Merchants in the American Slave Trade"-NCRM
Abstract: Jones-Rogers (University of California at Berkeley) discusses white women across the South, who engaged directly and indirectly in the domestic slave trade.
Author: Stephanie Jones-Rogers
Date: 11/10/2016
Location: National Civil Rights Museum, 450 Mulberry Street, Memphis, Tennessee 38103
Purchased Lives Teachers' Workshop-NCRM (Conference/Institute/Seminar)Title: Purchased Lives Teachers' Workshop-NCRM
Author: Erin Greenwald
Author: Daphne Derven
Author: Lori Boyer
Author: Ernestine Jenkins
Author: Edward Ball
Abstract: This one-day professional development workshop for educators of grades 7–12 will begin with an in-depth discussion of the scholarship and findings on America and the domestic slave trade from 1808 to 1865, to enhance and expand content knowledge. Curator and project director Erin Greenwald will present the lecture “Taking on the Tough Stuff of History: New Orleans and the Domestic Slave Trade,” followed by a guided tour of the exhibition. The lesson plans and ancillary materials will be the basis for a detailed discussion and exercises designed to build pedagogical strategies and techniques for classroom use. Ernestine Jenkins (University of Memphis) will provide an overview of the slave trade in Memphis. The workshop will wrap up with a lecture by humanities scholar, Edward Ball, and an open forum discussion on effective teaching about human rights, enslavement, resistance, and controversy.
Date Range: 9/30/2016
Location: National Civil Rights Museum, 450 Mulberry Street, Memphis, Tennessee, 38103
Purchased Lives Teachers' Workshop-Bullock (Conference/Institute/Seminar)Title: Purchased Lives Teachers' Workshop-Bullock
Author: Daphne Derven
Author: Erin Greenwald
Author: Jennifer Schwartzberg
Author: Daina Ramey Berry
Abstract: This one-day professional development workshop for educators of grades 7–12 will begin with an in-depth discussion of the scholarship and findings on America and the domestic slave trade from 1808 to 1865, to enhance and expand content knowledge. Curator and project director Erin Greenwald will present the lecture “Taking on the Tough Stuff of History: New Orleans and the Domestic Slave Trade,” followed by a guided tour of the exhibition. The lesson plans and ancillary materials will be the basis for a detailed discussion and exercises designed to build pedagogical strategies and techniques for classroom use. The workshop will wrap up with a lecture by humanities scholar, Daina Berry (University of Texas-Austin), and an open forum discussion on effective teaching about human rights, enslavement, resistance, and controversy.
Date Range: 2/11/2017
Location: Bullock Texas State History Museum. 1800 N. Congress, Austin, Texas 78701
Purchased Lives Opening Symposium at the Bullock (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Purchased Lives Opening Symposium at the Bullock
Abstract: Discussion moderated by Betz (Bullock) with Dr. Erin Greenwald, curator of Purchased Lives, and historian Dr. Daina Ramey Berry (UT Austin). Symposium provides historical context for the period when human lives were the primary currency of America’s pre-Civil War economy.
Author: Daina Ramey Berry
Author: Kate Betz
Author: Erin Greenwald
Date: 2/11/2017
Location: Bullock Texas State History Museum, 1800 Congress Ave, Austin, Texas 78701
Primary URL:
https://www.thestoryoftexas.com/visit/calendar/program-plives-member-opening-20170210"B Movies and Bad History: Slavery on the Silver Screen"-Bullock (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: "B Movies and Bad History: Slavery on the Silver Screen"-Bullock
Abstract: In conjunction with the Bullock Museum exhibition, Purchased Lives: The American Slave Trade from 1808-1865, this talk is an exploration of America's original sin as it has been portrayed on screen. Historians and media experts will guide us through a century of slavery on the silver screen through selected clips and conversation.
Author: Dwight Watson
Author: Winston G. Williams
Date: 3/28/2017
Location: Bullock Texas State History Museum, 1800 Congress Avenue, Austin, Texas 78701
Primary URL:
https://www.thestoryoftexas.com/visit/calendar/b-movies-and-bad-history-slavery-on-the-silver-screen-20170328Finding Your Roots-Workshop-Bullock (Conference/Institute/Seminar)Title: Finding Your Roots-Workshop-Bullock
Author: Ashley Stevens
Author: Maria Hammack
Abstract: Join historians and archivists for a conversation on using documents and other materials to discover personal histories, especially for those families fragmented by slavery. Maria Hammack will explore some of the historical resources available at the University of Texas. Her research shines light on Texas as a market for slavery and as a gateway for enslaved men and women who escaped to freedom in Mexico. Ashley Stevens will share resources from the Texas Library and Archives Commission, strategies for individuals attempting to trace their family histories today, and the complications involved in tracking down African-American relatives in the historic record.This program will be held in conjunction with the exhibition, Purchased Lives: The American Slave Trade from 1808 to 1865 which examines the domestic slave trade – a racialized system of bondage under which millions of men, women, and children lived and labored.
Date Range: 5/13/2017
Location: Bullock Texas State History Museum, 1800 Congress Avenue, Austin, Texas 78701
Primary URL:
https://www.thestoryoftexas.com/visit/calendar/workshop-finding-your-roots-20170513"Nexus of the Trade: New Orleans As America's Largest Slave Market" (Book Section)Title: "Nexus of the Trade: New Orleans As America's Largest Slave Market"
Author: Erin M. Greenwald
Editor: Nancy Dixon
Abstract: Article on New Orleans's role in the domestic slave trade included in book recognizing 300 years of New Orleans history, 1718-2018
Year: 2017
Access Model: hard-copy, for purchase
Publisher: Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities
Book Title: New Orleans and the World
Purchased Lives Gallery Talk-AMoA (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Purchased Lives Gallery Talk-AMoA
Abstract: Join THNOC curator Erin M. Greenwald for an hour-long guided tour of the exhibition Purchased Lives: The American Slave Trade from 1808 to 1865.
Author: Erin Greenwald
Date: 6/3/2016
Location: Alexandria Museum of Art
Purchased Lives Gallery Talk-AMoA (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Purchased Lives Gallery Talk-AMoA
Abstract: Join THNOC curator Erin M. Greenwald for an hour-long guided tour of the exhibition Purchased Lives: The American Slave Trade from 1808 to 1865.
Author: Erin Greenwald
Date: 7/15/2016
Location: Alexandria Museum of Art
Purchased Lives Gallery Talk-NCRM (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Purchased Lives Gallery Talk-NCRM
Abstract: Join THNOC curator Erin M. Greenwald for an hour-long guided tour of the exhibition Purchased Lives: The American Slave Trade from 1808 to 1865.
Author: Erin Greenwald
Date: 9/12/2016
Location: National Civil Rights Museum
"In the Footsteps of Solomon Northup"-panel show, Cane River (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: "In the Footsteps of Solomon Northup"-panel show, Cane River
Abstract: Historian Meredith Melançon discussed the story of Solomon Northup. Kidnapped and sold into slavery, he spent 12 years in Rapides and Avoyelles parishes before winning his freedom.
Author: Meredith Melançon
Date: 11/5/2016
Location: Cane River Creole National Historical Park, Natchitoches, Louisiana
Purchased Lives Teen Institute-panel show, Cane River (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Purchased Lives Teen Institute-panel show, Cane River
Abstract: The park partnered with the Natchitoches Parish Library to develop a program in which youth would
learn about the exhibit through discussions, activities, and crafts. The institute included a field trip to view the exhibit.
Author: National Park Service
Author: Natchitoches Parish Library
Date: 12/10/2016
Location: Natchitoches Parish Library, Natchitoches, Louisiana
"The Enslaved at Oakland Plantation"-panel show, Cane River (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: "The Enslaved at Oakland Plantation"-panel show, Cane River
Abstract: Historian Rolonda Teal led an engaging discussion on what can be learned about those whose lives had been purchased by the examination of the plantation records of the enslaved population at Oakland.
Author: Rolonda Teal
Date: 11/14/2016
Location: Cane River Creole National Historical Park, Natchitoches, Louisiana
"Let the Newspapers Speak"-panel show, Cane River (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: "Let the Newspapers Speak"-panel show, Cane River
Abstract: Historian Rolonda Teal focused on the Asbury Genealogical Project that used Natchitoches newspapers to recreate a snapshot of the lives of enslaved peoples. This program took place at Asbury United Methodist Church, the oldest African American Methodist Church in Natchitoches.
Author: Rolonda Teal
Date: 11/16/2016
Location: Asbury United Methodist Church, Natchitoches, Louisiana
"Slavery in Louisiana"-panel show, Cane River (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: "Slavery in Louisiana"-panel show, Cane River
Abstract: Dr. Susan Dollar from Northwestern State University spoke on the institution of slavery in Louisiana.
Author: Susan Dollar
Date: 12/8/2016
Location: Natchitoches Parish Library, Natchitoches, Louisiana
"Taking on the Tough Stuff of History: New Orleans and the Domestic Slave Trade"-panel show, Bunkie (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: "Taking on the Tough Stuff of History: New Orleans and the Domestic Slave Trade"-panel show, Bunkie
Abstract: Dr. Greenwald was our guest speaker during an evening event to introduce the Purchased Lives Exhibit to Bunkie. Dr. Greenwald spoke on the aspects of the Purchased Lives Tour and the impact slavery has had on our country, state, and local communities. As one of the curators of the exhibit, Dr. Greenwald was an excellent collaboration of our chosen book, 'Help Me to Find My People: The African American Search for Family Lost in Slavery." Books were distributed to those interested in participating in the book club over the next four weeks. We also discussed up coming future events to those present.
Author: Erin Greenwald
Date: 1/4/2017
Location: Bunkie City Hall Annex, Bunkie, Louisiana
"After Freedom"-Screening and discussion of "Slavery by Another Name"-panel show, Cane River (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: "After Freedom"-Screening and discussion of "Slavery by Another Name"-panel show, Cane River
Abstract: A series of talks and activities including, viewing of documentary “Slavery by Another Name" and a
performance by an African drumming group.
Author: National Park Service
Date: 12/10/2016
Location: Cane River Creole National Historical Park, Natchitoches, Louisiana
Screening and Discussion of "Beloved"-panel show, Bunkie (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Screening and Discussion of "Beloved"-panel show, Bunkie
Abstract: "Beloved" was shown to those present and a discussion was held following the movie. Meredith Melancon led the discussion.
Author: Meredith Melançon
Date: 1/11/2017
Location: Bunkie City Hall Annex, Bunkie, Louisiana
Screening and Discussion of "Slavery by Another Name"-panel show, Bunkie (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Screening and Discussion of "Slavery by Another Name"-panel show, Bunkie
Abstract: The documentary "Slavery by Another Name" was shown to a group. Meredith Melancon was
present to discuss the relevance of the documentary and the exhibit.
Author: Meredith Melançon
Date: 1/17/2017
Location: Bunkie City Hall Annex, Bunkie, Louisiana
Screening and Discussion of "Slavery by Another Name"-panel show, Bunkie (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Screening and Discussion of "Slavery by Another Name"-panel show, Bunkie
Abstract: The documentary "Slavery by Another Name" was shown to a group. Meredith Melancon was
present to discuss the relevance of the documentary and the exhibit.
Author: Meredith Melançon
Date: 1/17/2017
Location: Bunkie City Hall Annex, Bunkie, Louisiana
"Williams' Gang: A Slave Trader, His Cargo, and Justice in the Old South"-panel show, Bunkie (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: "Williams' Gang: A Slave Trader, His Cargo, and Justice in the Old South"-panel show, Bunkie
Abstract: This lecture by historian Jeff Forret offers a legal history of the domestic slave trade based on his current book project of the same name. In 1840, Washington, DC, slave trader William H. Williams unlawfully conveyed some two dozen enslaved convicts from Virginia into Louisiana and had them confiscated by the state. Forret’s research chronicles the trader’s decades-long struggle with the Louisiana government for the enslaved convicts’ return.
Author: Jeff Forret
Date: 1/23/2017
Location: Bunkie City Hall Annex, Bunkie, Louisiana
Solomon Northup Trail, Bus Tour-panel show, Bunkie (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Solomon Northup Trail, Bus Tour-panel show, Bunkie
Abstract: Mrs. Melacon lead a bus tour of the Solomon Northup Trail through Rapides and Avoyelles Parishes.
During their travels, Meredith spoke at length of the relevance of slavery and what the reality of slavery looked like in areas such as Avoyelles and Rapides parishes. The tour began with the Epps house, which is now a museum at the LSUA campus and worked continued down the trail, stopping at historical sites still present today (i.e., homes, bayous, etc).
Author: Meredith Melançon
Date: 1/28/2017
Location: Rapides and Avoyelles Parishes, Louisiana
Help Me to Find My People Book Club-panel show, Bunkie (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Help Me to Find My People Book Club-panel show, Bunkie
Abstract: Our Purchased Lives Exhibit concluded with a book club discussion of "Help Me to Find My People: The African American Search for Family Lost in Slavery. "Book club" members and those present discussed the book at length and the relevance of today's world and those with little background and genealogical knowledge of their families. The group discussed how not "having a history" affects persons at an emotional level and contributes to the social impacts as well. Physical and medical issues related to not having a clear history of family
illnesses and diseases were also noted. Its interesting in our small area, that some families can account back multiple generations (i.e., Revolutionary War, Civil War), where others can only go back as far as 2 or 3.
Author: multiple
Date: 2/1/2017
Location: Bunkie City Hall Annex, Bunkie, Louisiana
Bamboula 2000 Opening Reception and School Outreach, panel show-WBRM (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Bamboula 2000 Opening Reception and School Outreach, panel show-WBRM
Abstract: Opening reception with interactive African drumming performance by Bamboula 2000. The group also
did a local school outreach at Port Allen Middle School earlier in the same day.
Author: Bamboula 2000
Date: 2/17/2017
Location: Port Allen Middle School and West Baton Rouge Museum, West Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana
Mrs. Catherine Cornelieus from Smithfield Plantation: An Ex-Slave Narrative-panel show, WBRM (Film/TV/Video Broadcast or Recording)Title: Mrs. Catherine Cornelieus from Smithfield Plantation: An Ex-Slave Narrative-panel show, WBRM
Writer: Catherine Cornelius
Director: Julie Rose
Director: Kevin McQuarn
Producer: Fantom Light Productions
Producer: Kevin McQuarn
Abstract: In conjunction with our opening reception, there was a screening of a custom made film, featuring a one-woman performance by Judy Whitney Davis of the Ex-Slave Narrative of Catherine Cornelius of Smithfield Plantation in West Baton Rouge Parish. The narrative was found in the Cammie G. Henry Research Center at the Northwestern State University Library. Fantom Light Productions recorded Ms. Davis' performance and produced a video that was used in the exhibit and will have a permanent home in the WBRM's historic Allendale Slave Cabin.
Year: 2017
Primary URL:
https://youtu.be/dX9N0KkGaPcPrimary URL Description: Streaming access via YouTube
Access Model: in gallery; youtube
Format: Video
Format: DVD
Format: Digital File
Format: Web
"Taking on the Tough Stuff of History: New Orleans and the Domestic Slave Trade"-panel show, WBRM (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: "Taking on the Tough Stuff of History: New Orleans and the Domestic Slave Trade"-panel show, WBRM
Abstract: Join Purchased Lives curator Erin M. Greenwald as she discusses the research behind the exhibition and the importance of grappling with the complex histories of race and slavery in the 21st century.
Author: Erin Greenwald
Date: 2/21/2017
Location: West Baton Rouge Museum, West Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana
"Allendale Plantation Slave Community"-panel show, WBRM (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: "Allendale Plantation Slave Community"-panel show, WBRM
Abstract: Dr. Rose described her research into the enslaved community at Allendale Plantation (WBR), including what is known about where the people came from and how the population changed with the Second Middle Passage. We included her findings on additional panels which we added to the traveling Purchased Lives panels (along with records from our local courthouse) for the exhibit here at the WBRM. Dr. Rose invited WBR resident Debbie Martin to discuss her new organization "Westside Cemetery Preservation" at her March 16th talk. Mrs. Martin has received great press lately for her research into the abandoned black cemeteries of WBR. She hopes to channel the excitement around her endeavor to clean up and protect these sites which are scattered across the fields of our parish.
Author: Julie Rose
Date: 3/16/2017
Location: West Baton Rouge Museum, West Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana
Screening of "Twelve Years a Slave", WBRM (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Screening of "Twelve Years a Slave", WBRM
Abstract: Film screening.
Author: Julie Rose
Date: 3/19/2017
Location: West Baton Rouge Museum, West Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana
"Proofs of Purchase: Documenting Enslaved Ancestors", WBRM (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: "Proofs of Purchase: Documenting Enslaved Ancestors", WBRM
Abstract: This presentation, offered by genealogist Jari C. Honora, offers a brief overview of genealogical research for African Americans in the post–Civil War period. The talk is focused primarily on tracing enslaved ancestors back through generations of captivity, including methods for identifying the last-known slave owners of African Americans in the antebellum period.
Author: Jari Honora
Date: 3/30/2017
Location: West Baton Rouge Museum, West Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana
Traces of Texas Slavery-Bullock (Conference/Institute/Seminar)Title: Traces of Texas Slavery-Bullock
Author: Andrew Torget
Author: Nancy Bercaw
Author: Mary Elliott
Author: Maria Franklin
Abstract: Interpreting American slavery and its consequences from a variety of academic perspectives. Join scholars for an exploration of slavery and its role in our shared history. What does the historical record tell us about slavery and what were its repercussions? Discover for yourself with guidance through the layers of complexity and nuance in Texas and the nation. Speakers at the event will highlight the deep and lasting impacts of slavery on Texas through analysis of historic sources as diverse as artifacts, architecture, documents and descendant interviews.
Date Range: 1/27-1/28/2017
Location: Bullock Texas State History Museum, Austin, Texas
Primary URL:
https://www.thestoryoftexas.com/visit/calendar/symposium-traces-of-texas-slavery-20170128High Noon Talk: Tomlinson Hill-Bullock (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: High Noon Talk: Tomlinson Hill-Bullock
Abstract: Held on the first Wednesday of every month, High Noon Talks highlight interesting and often untold topics through this casual lunch-time lecture. Tomlinson Hill: Sons of Slaves, Sons of Slaveholders chronicles the history of two Tomlinson families, one black and one white, who trace their history to a Central Texas slave plantation. Join Chris Tomlinson, author, filmmaker and journalist for a discussion about the book and his journey researching and writing it.
Author: Chris Tomlinson
Date: 3/1/2017
Location: Bullock Texas State History Museum
Texas Artist Series: Blind Lemon's Last Blues-Bullock (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Texas Artist Series: Blind Lemon's Last Blues-Bullock
Abstract: Blind Lemon Jefferson was born in Texas in 1893 and went on to become one of the earliest recorded performers of the blues. His unique sound and commercial success in the 1920s made him one of the most popular and influential blues musicians of all time. His music and the blues generally, are a unique genre with themes that reflect our nation's history and the African American experience from slavery, through generations of discrimination, the fight for equality and the everyday challenges we all face today. Blind Lemon’s Last Blues is a one-man play with music by Alan Govenar and Akin Babatunde about the day, December 19, 1929, when the legendary blues singer Blind Lemon Jefferson died in the snow in Chicago. Songs and monologues bring to life the voices of Blind Lemon Jefferson and his contemporaries, including Blind Willie Johnson, Lillian Glinn, Hattie Hudson, Bobbie Cadillac, and Lead Belly. Blind Lemon’s Last Blues is a story of the deep human need to find purpose in the foibles of life.
Author: Alan Govenar
Author: Akin Babatunde
Date: 6/30/2017
Location: Bullock Texas State History Museum, Austin, Texas
Opening reception of panel exhibition, discussion with Dr. Erin Greenwald, Jackson (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Opening reception of panel exhibition, discussion with Dr. Erin Greenwald, Jackson
Abstract: Patrons viewed the exhibit and discussed their thoughts/questions. Dr. Erin Greenwald gave an overview of Slavery in North America and held an open discussion with patrons
Author: Erin Greenwald
Date: 4/18/2017
Location: Jackson Parish Library, 614 S. Polk Ave Jonesboro, LA 71251
Primary URL:
http://www.jacksonparishlib.org/Good Books, Good Friends Book Club, Jackson (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Good Books, Good Friends Book Club, Jackson
Abstract: Patrons discussed Hidden Figures and racial injustice throughout US History.
Author: N/A
Date: 4/19/2017
Location: Jackson Parish Library, 614 S. Polk Ave Jonesboro, LA 71251
Primary URL:
http://www.jacksonparishlib.org/Adult Craft, Quilt Cards-Jackson (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Adult Craft, Quilt Cards-Jackson
Abstract: Adults made paper quilt cards to represent the Freedom Quilts associated with slave escape routes.
Patrons also looked at books regarding the Freedom Quilters.
Author: N/A
Date: 4/26/2017
Location: Jackson Parish Library, 614 SOUTH POLK AVE. JONESBORO, LA 71251
Primary URL:
http://www.jacksonparishlib.org/Storytime with Sherry Broussard, Story Teller-Jackson (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Storytime with Sherry Broussard, Story Teller-Jackson
Abstract: Ms. Sherry Broussard, story teller and author, performed two story times at Southside Elementary School.
She read her book, The Birthday Box, which teaches children the importance of learning your family heritage
and history. Students went home with information about the exhibit on view.
Author: Sherry Broussard
Date: 4/27/2017
Location: Southside Elementary School, 2105 S Polk Ave, Jonesboro, LA 71251
Primary URL:
http://www.jacksonparishlib.org/Booker T. Washington presentation by Dr. Michael Bieze-Bayou Teche (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Booker T. Washington presentation by Dr. Michael Bieze-Bayou Teche
Abstract: Power Point presentation by Dr. Michael, Fine Arts Chair at Marist School in Atlanta and the author of "Booker T. Washington and the Art of Self-Representation." The lecture was based on primary documents from public and private collections and touched on the historical significance of Booker T. Washington's visit to Howe Institute in New Iberia on April 14, 1915 just months before his death. In front of hundreds of blacks and whites in the outdoor assembly he stressed that education was the key to find fair solutions to all economic problems. The talk was attended by a 50/50 mixed race audience of about 45 people.
Author: Dr. Michael Bieze
Date: 08-05-2017
Location: Bayou Teche Museum, PO Box 14151, New Iberia, LA 70562
Primary URL:
https://bayoutechemuseum.org/Sugar Was King in Those Days: Slavery and Wealth in Louisina-Bayou Teche (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Sugar Was King in Those Days: Slavery and Wealth in Louisina-Bayou Teche
Abstract: This was an oral power point presentation by Dr. Ian Beamish, who earned his Ph.D. in History from Johns Hopkins University with his dissertation: “Saving the South: Agricultural Reform in the Southern United States, 1819-1861." The program, "Sugar Was King in Those Days: Slavery and Wealth in Louisina" was expanded upon with a relevant expressive performance by well known New Iberia storyteller and author, Daphne Thomas. The two hour presentation was held at the theater adjacent to the Bayou Teche Museum at no cost to the Museum and the audience was invited to a free tour of the Purchased Lives Exhibit immediately following. The presentation was well received and attended by a racially balanced audience.
Author: Dr. Ian Beamish
Date: 08-10-2017
Location: Bayou Teche Museum – 131 E. Main Street, New Iberia, LA 70560
Primary URL:
http://https://bayoutechemuseum.org/School Tour - Loreauville High--Bayou Teche (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: School Tour - Loreauville High--Bayou Teche
Abstract: 11th graders participated in a three part program. They were split into two groups. Each was introduced to the Purchased Lives Panel Exhibit led by Reverend Mary Bashay. That was followed by a presentation of the role of enslaved people in Iberia Parish's sugar cane industry by long-time sugar cane farmer and historian, Joe Judice. After their time with us at the Bayou Teche Museum the students walked the two blocks to Shadows-on-the-Teche Plantation home where the tour narrative had been customized to tell the story of enslaved life on the Plantation before and after the Civil War. Lesson plans and guidelines had been given to the teachers prior to the tour and the discussions were intense and lively. The students were incredibly attentive at both locations and the teachers were very appreciative that this opportunity had been made available to the community. They scheduled another class tour immediately following this one.
Author: Reverend Mary Bashay
Author: Joe Judice
Date: 08-18-2017
Location: Bayou Teche Museum – 131 E. Main Street, New Iberia, LA 70560
Primary URL:
https://bayoutechemuseum.org/A Journey Through Slavery at the Whitney Plantation-Bayou Teche (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: A Journey Through Slavery at the Whitney Plantation-Bayou Teche
Abstract: This free lecture was presented as a power point by Dr. Ibrahimi Seck, Director of Research at the Whitney Plantation. The hour and a half lecture was held at the theater adjacent to the Bayou Teche Museum, at no rental charge to us. The presentation focused on the historical and cultural links between West Africa and Louisiana with a special interest on religious beliefs, music, foods, and miscellaneous aspects of folklore. An extensive question and answer period followed. The audience was then invited next door for a free viewing of Purchased Lives at the Museum. The audience was racially mixed.
Author: Dr. Ibrahimi Seck
Date: 08-19-2017
Location: Bayou Teche Museum,129 E Main St, New Iberia, LA 70560
Primary URL:
https://bayoutechemuseum.org/School Tour - Catholic High--Bayou Teche (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: School Tour - Catholic High--Bayou Teche
Abstract: 11th graders participated in a three part program. They were split into two groups. Each was introduced to the Purchased Lives Panel Exhibit led by Reverend Mary Bashay. That was followed by a presentation of the role of enslaved people in Iberia Parish's sugar cane industry by long-time sugar cane farming family and former educator, Dr. Catherine Segura. After their time with us at the Bayou Teche Museum the students walked the two blocks to Shadows-on-the-Teche Plantation home where the tour narrative had been customized to tell the story of enslaved life on the Plantation before and after the Civil War. Lesson plans and guidelines had been given to the teachers prior to the tour and the discussions were intense and lively. The students were incredibly attentive at both locations and the teachers were very appreciative that this opportunity had been made available to the community. They scheduled another class tour immediately following this one.
Author: Dr. Catherine Segura
Author: Reverend Mary Bashay
Date: 08-22-2017
Location: Bayou Teche Museum – 131 E. Main Street, New Iberia, LA 70560
Primary URL:
https://bayoutechemuseum.org/School Tour - Loreauville High and Catholic High-Bayou Teche (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: School Tour - Loreauville High and Catholic High-Bayou Teche
Abstract: 8th and 9th graders participated in a three part program. They were split into two groups. Each was introduced to the Purchased Lives Panel Exhibit led by Reverend Mary Bashay. That was followed by a presentation of the role of enslaved people in Iberia Parish's sugar cane industry by long-time sugar cane farming family and former educator, Dr. Catherine Segura. After their time with us at the Bayou Teche Museum the students walked the two blocks to Shadows-on-the-Teche Plantation home where the tour narrative had been customized to tell the story of enslaved life on the Plantation before and after the Civil War. Lesson plans and guidelines had been given to the teachers prior to the tour and the discussions were intense and lively. The students were incredibly attentive at both locations and the teachers were very appreciative that this opportunity had been made available to the community.
Author: Reverend Mary Bashay
Author: Dr. Catherine Segura
Date: 08-25-2017
Location: Bayou Teche Museum – 131 E. Main Street, New Iberia, LA 70560
Primary URL:
https://bayoutechemuseum.org/Meet Me at the Movies, Hidden Figures-Jackson (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Meet Me at the Movies, Hidden Figures-Jackson
Abstract: A showing of Hidden Figures as a follow up to the book club.
Author: None
Date: 05/03/2017
Location: Jackson Parish Library main branch, 614 SOUTH POLK AVE. JONESBORO, LA 71251
Primary URL:
http://www.jacksonparishlib.org/Dr. Elaine Thompson, speaker-Jackson (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Dr. Elaine Thompson, speaker-Jackson
Abstract: Local professor, Dr. Elaine Thompson, spoke about the North American Slave Trade at our Chatham
Branch to promote the exhibit on display at Jonesboro
Author: Dr. Elaine Thompson
Date: 05/08/2017
Location: Jackson Parish Library CHATHAM BRANCH 1500 PINE ST. CHATHAM, LA 71226
Primary URL:
http://www.jacksonparishlib.org/YA (Young Adult) Wednesday: Paper Lanterns and Meet Addy--Jackson (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: YA (Young Adult) Wednesday: Paper Lanterns and Meet Addy--Jackson
Abstract: Middle schoolers met to create paper lanterns and discuss the American Girl book series "Meet Addy".
Author: None
Date: 5/10/2017
Location: Jackson Parish Library main branch, 614 SOUTH POLK AVE. JONESBORO, LA 71251
Primary URL:
http://www.jacksonparishlib.org/Children's Art- Genealogy--Jackson (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Children's Art- Genealogy--Jackson
Abstract: Elementary Students painted family trees to learn the
importance of tracing your ancestry. Also discussed the difficulties freed slaves had locating their family.
Author: N/A
Date: 5/12/2017
Location: Jackson Parish Library main branch, 614 SOUTH POLK AVE. JONESBORO, LA 71251
Primary URL:
http://www.jacksonparishlib.org/Home School Day with Meredith Melancon-Jackson (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Home School Day with Meredith Melancon-Jackson
Abstract: Students discussed the book Twelve Years a Slave and completed worksheets from the Purchased Lives binder.
Author: Meredith Melancon
Date: 5/17/2017
Location: Jackson Parish Library main branch, 614 SOUTH POLK AVE. JONESBORO, LA 71251
Primary URL:
http://www.jacksonparishlib.org/Good Books, Good Friends Book Club with Meredith Melancon-Jackson (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Good Books, Good Friends Book Club with Meredith Melancon-Jackson
Abstract: Adult patrons discussed Twelve Years a Slave with Meredith Melancon.
Author: Meredith Melancon
Date: 5/17/2017
Location: Jackson Parish Library main branc, 614 SOUTH POLK AVE. JONESBORO, LA 71251
Primary URL:
http://www.jacksonparishlib.org/Movie Mania at Chatham Branch showing Hidden Figures--Jackson (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Movie Mania at Chatham Branch showing Hidden Figures--Jackson
Abstract: Screening of Hidden Figures at Jackson Parish Library Chantham Branch
Author: N/A
Date: 5/22/2017
Location: Jackson Parish Library CHATHAM BRANCH 1500 PINE ST. CHATHAM, LA 71226
Primary URL:
http://www.jacksonparishlib.org/School Tour - Anderson Middle-Bayou Teche (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: School Tour - Anderson Middle-Bayou Teche
Abstract: 7th graders participated in a three part program. They were split into two groups. Each was introduced to the Purchased Lives Panel Exhibit led by Reverend Mary Bashay. That was followed by a presentation of the role of enslaved people in Iberia Parish's sugar cane industry by long-time sugar cane farming family and former educator, Dr. Catherine Segura. After their time with us at the Bayou Teche Museum the students walked the two blocks to Shadows-on-the-Teche Plantation home where the tour narrative had been customized to tell the story of enslaved life on the Plantation before and after the Civil War. Lesson plans and guidelines had been given to the teachers prior to the tour and the discussions were intense and lively. The students were incredibly attentive at both locations and the teachers were very appreciative that this opportunity had been made available to the community
Author: Dr. Catherine Segura
Author: Reverend Mary Bashay
Date: 8/28/2017
Location: Bayou Teche Museum – 131 E. Main Street, New Iberia, LA 70560
Primary URL:
https://bayoutechemuseum.org/Slavery and the Catholic Church-Bayou Teche (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Slavery and the Catholic Church-Bayou Teche
Abstract: Mr. John Cummings is owner of the Whitney Plantation which comprises 250 acres of land and was home to the Haydel family, one of the largest slaveholders in the state. The Whitney Museum is dedicated to the history of slavery and became the first of its kind in the U.S. when it opened in 2014. Mr. Cummings received his law graduate from Loyola University, New Orleans and has studied the impact that the Catholic Church had on slavery all over the United States. The lecture was held at the theater adjacent to the Bayou Teche Museum at no charge to us and, even though Purchased Lives had already moved on to its next locale attendees to the lecture were invited for a free tour of the Museum
Author: John Cummings
Date: 9/9/2017
Location: Bayou Teche Museum, 129 E Main St, New Iberia, LA 70560
Primary URL:
https://bayoutechemuseum.org/Purchased Lives: A Closer Look at the Antebellum South-Bayou Teche (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Purchased Lives: A Closer Look at the Antebellum South-Bayou Teche
Abstract: This summer workshop was sponsored by Iberia Parish Library as they partnered with the Bayou Teche Museum and Shadows-on-the-Teche. Open to 13 - 17 year olds, we focused on the vast, rich history of the plantation and the family who owned it. That was followed by a tour of the Purchased Lives exhibit at the Bayou Teche Museum to uncover the less-than-pretty truths of the American slave trade and the lives of the slaves that built and worked on plantations not unlike the Shadows.
Author: None
Date: 7/20/2017
Location: Bayou Teche Museum – 131 E. Main Street, New Iberia, LA 70560
Primary URL:
https://bayoutechemuseum.org/A Journey Through Slavery at the Whitney Plantation-Nicholls State (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: A Journey Through Slavery at the Whitney Plantation-Nicholls State
Abstract: The first program featured a lecture by Dr. Ibrahima Seck, Director of Research at Whitney Plantation, on the history of slavery at the Whitney plantation located along the Mississippi river. He spoke about the enslaved population of the plantation during different time periods and under different foreign governments. He also discussed the cultural legacies of slavery in Louisiana and how those legacies shaped American culture.
Author: Dr. Ibrahima Seck
Date: 09-05-2017
Location: Nicholls State University Ellender Memorial Library, 906 E 1st St, Thibodaux, LA 70301
Primary URL:
https://www.nicholls.edu/library/Taking on the Tough Stuff of History: New Orleans and the Domestic Slave Trade-Nicholls State (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Taking on the Tough Stuff of History: New Orleans and the Domestic Slave Trade-Nicholls State
Abstract: Dr. Erin Greenwald, curator of the Purchased Lives exhibit at the Historic New Orleans Collection, gave an overview of the slave trade in the city of New Orleans and the research behind the exhibit.
Author: Dr. Erin Greenwald
Date: 09-14-2017
Location: Nicholls State University Ellender Memorial Library, 906 E 1st St, Thibodaux, LA 70301
Primary URL:
https://www.nicholls.edu/library/Proofs of Purchase: Documenting Enslaved Ancestors-Nicholls (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Proofs of Purchase: Documenting Enslaved Ancestors-Nicholls
Abstract: Jari Honora gave an overview of genealogical research for African-Americans in the post-Civil War period. The talk focused on tracing enslaved ancestors back through generations of captivity including methods for identifying the last-known slave owners.
Author: Jari Honora
Date: 09-20-2017
Location: Nicholls State University Ellender Memorial Library, 906 E 1st St, Thibodaux, LA 70301
Primary URL:
https://www.nicholls.edu/library/Williams Gang: A Slave Trader, His Cargo, and Justice in the Old South-Nicholls (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Williams Gang: A Slave Trader, His Cargo, and Justice in the Old South-Nicholls
Abstract: This lecture by Dr. Jeff Forret, Professor of History at Lamar University, offered a legal history of the domestic slave trade based on Dr. Forret's current book project based on slave trader William H. Williams. This slave trader unlawfully conveyed two dozen enslaved convicts from Virginia into Louisiana and had them confiscated by the state. Dr. Forret's research chronicles the trader's decades-long struggle with the Louisiana government for the enslaved convicts' return.
Author: Dr. Jeff Forret
Date: 09-26-2017
Location: Nicholls State University Ellender Memorial Library, 906 E 1st St, Thibodaux, LA 70301
Primary URL:
https://www.nicholls.edu/library/Movie Screening of 12 Years a Slave-Nicholls (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Movie Screening of 12 Years a Slave-Nicholls
Abstract: Showing of movie "12 Years a Slave"
Author: N/A
Date: 10-02-2017
Location: Nicholls State University Ellender Memorial Library, 906 E 1st St, Thibodaux, LA 70301
Primary URL:
https://www.nicholls.edu/library/In the Footsteps of Solomon Northup-Nicholls (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: In the Footsteps of Solomon Northup-Nicholls
Abstract: This program was led by Meredith Melancon, educator and author of The Solomon Northup Trail. She discussed the lives of the enslaved along Solomon Northup's Bayou Boeuf and experiences of Northup in Rapides and Avoyelles parishes after he was sold from a New Orleans slave trader.
Author: Meredith Melancon
Date: 10-03-2017
Location: Nicholls State University Ellender Memorial Library, 906 E 1st St, Thibodaux, LA 70301
Primary URL:
https://www.nicholls.edu/library/"Zydeco - Rhythms of West Africa and the Caribbean with Horace Trahan and Rodney Bernard of the Ossun Express"-New Roads (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: "Zydeco - Rhythms of West Africa and the Caribbean with Horace Trahan and Rodney Bernard of the Ossun Express"-New Roads
Abstract: Brian Costello presented a timeline of enslavement in Pointe Coupee Parish. Mr. Costello stated that there are three points of commonality that can be found among the enslaved people of the southern part of the United States: closeness of the family, faith in the church, and the love of music. He explained that most of the rhythms and many of the words found in Zydeco and French music are of West African and Caribbean origin. Mr. Costello introduced Mr. Horace Trahan and Mr. Rodney Bernard of the Ossun Express Band. The talented duo entertained us with a variety of music genres: French La La, Zydeco, two-step, waltzes, and even rock and roll. Between songs, Mr. Bernard and Mr. Trahan answered questions from the audience and told many anecdotes.
Author: Brian Costello
Author: Mr. Horace Trahan
Author: Mr. Rodney Bernard
Date: 10-21-2017
Location: Pointe Coupee Parish Library, 201 Claiborne Street, New Roads, Louisiana 70760
Primary URL:
http://www.pointe-coupee.lib.la.us/"Remembering Slavery-A Group Book Discussion" -New Roads (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: "Remembering Slavery-A Group Book Discussion" -New Roads
Abstract: "Penelope McCarthy coordinated a book discussion on ""Remembering Slavery: African Americans Talk About Their Personal Experiences of Slavery and Emancipation"", edited by noted historians Ira Berlin, Marc Favreau, and Steven F. Miller. I chose to have two discussion dates for this particular book in order to offer the presentation to more people. In this manner, we were able to hold the book talks in the smaller of our two meeting rooms which provided a more comfortable and intimate setting.
The readers in attendance all agreed that putting a face on the persons telling their memories added a heartbreaking touch of humanity to the stories.
The book was well-liked by all of the participants with the exception of one African American woman who said that she is sick of reading about slavery. The rest of us agreed that it is important to talk about this dark period of our history.
Author: Penelope McCarthy
Date: 10-28-2017
Location: Pointe Coupee Parish Library, 201 Claiborne Street, New Roads, Louisiana 70760
Primary URL:
http://www.pointe-coupee.lib.la.us/"The Search for Henriette: A Local Familly's Story of Discovery and Diversity" - A Panel Discussion led by Brian J. Costello and Penelope M. McCarthy--News Roads (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: "The Search for Henriette: A Local Familly's Story of Discovery and Diversity" - A Panel Discussion led by Brian J. Costello and Penelope M. McCarthy--News Roads
Abstract: The format of this presentation was a panel discussion led by Brian Costello and Penelope McCarthy. The discussion was accompanied by a Power Point Presentation prepared by Brian. We presented our personal family story of how we discovered and embraced our large, racially diverse family, the descendants of Charles Gremillion, Sr. (1761-1814) of Pointe Coupee Parish, and his first wife, Marguerite Recuron. Over four years ago, several of us took DNA tests from a popular company. When we got matches as cousins, we got together and that was the start of something monumental.
Present on the panel were 12 of us who had appeared on Genealogy Roadshow. Penelope had made a large family tree chart which she and Brian used to explain the relationships. Family members came from the New Orleans area, Baton Rouge, and Chicago to participate. They answered many question about DNA testing and how exactly our black and white sides were connected. We also discussed how this event has affected our lives in the most beautiful ways. Cameran Battley, our young cousin from Chicago, said that our story is a beautiful story and is truly an American story. She encouraged the others to think about having their DNA tested to find out about themselves. And she said that our story is a prime example of how DNA can be used in a very positive way to unite a family.
After the presentation, the entire audience was invited to come to Penelope's house for shrimp etouffe cooked by Gremillion cousin, Troy Battley.
Author: Brian J. Costello
Author: Penelope M. McCarthy
Date: 11-04-2017
Location: Pointe Coupee Parish Library 201 Claiborne Street, New Roads, Louisiana 70760
Primary URL:
http://www.pointe-coupee.lib.la.us/"Remembering Slavery- A Book Discussion" led by Penelope McCarthy-News Roads (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: "Remembering Slavery- A Book Discussion" led by Penelope McCarthy-News Roads
Abstract: This program was a duplication of Program 2, but with different participants. We divided the book discussion into two separate presentations in order to provide a more intimate and comfortable venue for each session and to accommodate more individuals.
Author: Penelope McCarthy
Date: 11-07-2017
Location: Pointe Coupee Parish Library, 201 Claiborne Street, New Roads, Louisiana 70760
Primary URL:
http://www.pointe-coupee.lib.la.us/"A Creole Language Class with Dr. Angelique Bergeron and Brian J. Costello"-New Roads (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: "A Creole Language Class with Dr. Angelique Bergeron and Brian J. Costello"-New Roads
Abstract: West Baton Parish Rouge Museum Director and French scholar, Dr. Angelique Bergeron, held a Creole conversation class on November 11, 2017. She was assisted in this endeavor by Brian J. Costello. The size of the group (10) allowed for us sit around a table in an intimate setting which enabled us to face each other while speaking. Dr. Bergeron began by handing out folktales written both in French and Creole. She asked us to look at the text for words that are recognizable as being very similar to English. She stated that a large percentage of words in French and English are very similar.
We discussed three humorous folktales in Creole: "Chyen e Kokodri" (The Dog and the Alligator), "Le Boef e la Veye Tousen" (The Cow and the Old Halloween), and "Karenkro e Manje Poule" (The Buzzard and the Chicken Hawk). She presented a song, "Fam-la Di" (The Woman Said) . Dr. Bergeron taught us how Creole subject and object pronouns patterns closely mimic those of several of he languages of West Africa, which is the area from which the great majority of Louisiana's enslaved persons came. We conversed in Creole French using the Afro-Creole sentence structure.
Author: Dr. Angelique Bergeron
Author: Brian J. Costello
Date: 11-11-2017
Location: Pointe Coupee Parish Library, 201 Claiborne Street, New Roads, Louisiana 70760
Primary URL:
http://www.pointe-coupee.lib.la.us/"Sold into Enslavement: The Tribulation and Vindication of the Olivo Family of False River" by Brian J. Costello-New Roads (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: "Sold into Enslavement: The Tribulation and Vindication of the Olivo Family of False River" by Brian J. Costello-New Roads
Abstract: Our last, and very powerful, presentation was given by local scholar, historian, and genealogist Brian Costello. He accompanied his talk with a Power Point Presentation. Some years ago while researching another family, Brian noticed the name "Olivo", a family from Pointe Coupee, and became intrigued with their story. The Olivos were one of many families in Pointe Coupee that had branches "blanc" and "de couleur." The branch of color stemmed from George Olivo II, with one of his enslaved labor force, a black woman named Magdelaine. In 1801, Olivo emancipated Magdelaine, then aged 40 years, along with their (his) five natural children. He died two years later, and in his last will and testament, he left his natural de couleur family all of his property, including a farm on the New Roads side of False River.
Of particular interest to those in attendance was the fact that many of the individuals mentioned in the story had direct descendants present in the audience. Brian brought this amazing story to life while incorporating the history of the times and of Pointe Coupee, in particular, into focus. There were many questions asked after the presentation, and many people stayed after the presentation to speak with Brian.
Author: Brian J. Costello
Date: 11-18-2017
Location: Pointe Coupee Parish Library, 201 Claiborne Street, New Roads, Louisiana 70760
Primary URL:
http://www.pointe-coupee.lib.la.us/Chained to the Land book talk-Bossier City (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Chained to the Land book talk-Bossier City
Abstract: "Lynette Tanner, co-owner of Frogmore Plantation and editor of Chained to the Land: Voices from Cotton & Cane Plantations, presented her book, which focuses on the WPA's slave narratives from Louisiana. She gave an overview of the history of slavery and Louisiana's history in particular. She discussed some of the legislation regarding slavery that was unique to Louisiana. She also read some excerpts from the narratives aloud and used visual aids. The excerpts helped our audience grasp more fully the fact that slaves were real people who were owned and controlled by others.
Ms. Tanner's book features the WP Writer's Project Slave Narratives for Louisiana. Louisiana's transcripts were never housed with other states' narratives at the Library of Congress, they remained at Melrose Plantation in Natchitoches Parish. They are at the Cammie G. Henry Research Center at Northwestern State University. Ms. Tanner compiled and edited the narratives into her book. She provided a concise history regarding slavery in Louisiana. "
Author: Lynette Tanner
Date: 06-03-2017
Location: Bossier Parish Library, 2206 Beckett Street, Bossier City , LA 71111
Primary URL:
http://www.bossierlibrary.org/The Underground Railroad in Northwest Louisiana-Bossier City (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: The Underground Railroad in Northwest Louisiana-Bossier City
Abstract: Thelma Harrison, a storyteller with the Company Repertory Theatre's Theatre Eclectic, presented a performance piece based on her research of Harriet Tubman. She told the story (in character) of Tubman's life, not just her role in leading enslaved people to freedom via the Underground Railroad, but a story of her own personal life-shaping events and emotions. She then took questions from the audience, engaging with children in particular. Anthropologist and author, Rolonda Teal, then discussed her work related to Los Adaes State Historic Site in Natchitoches, part of the National Underground Network to Freedom program. She talked about El Camino Real de los Tejas and how enslaved persons in Northwest Louisiana would try to escape west to Texas, rather than face a long journey to the northern free states. She also gave a detailed description of a planned escape of more than 30 enslaved people from Natchitoches, LA to Nacogdoches, TX in 1804. She explained the differences between slave societies and societies with slaves.
Author: Thelma Harrison
Author: Rolonda Teal
Date: 06-10-2017
Location: Bossier Parish Library, 2206 Beckett Street, Bossier City , LA 71111
Primary URL:
http://www.bossierlibrary.org/The African Roots of Louisiana Creole Cooking & Culture-Bossier City (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: The African Roots of Louisiana Creole Cooking & Culture-Bossier City
Abstract: Panderina Soumas, culinary foodSTORIAN and author of Soumas Heritage Creole Cookbook, gave a presentation connecting Louisiana's Creole history and culture to its African roots and the history of slavery. She discussed vegetables and products commonly used during the time of slavery. She also showed heirloom photos and information about her personal Creole family history. The audience got to sample some food items.
Author: Panderina Soumas
Date: 06-17-2017
Location: Bossier Parish Library, 2206 Beckett Street, Bossier City , LA 71111
Primary URL:
http://www.bossierlibrary.org/"Clinton, Louisiana" book talk-Bossier City (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: "Clinton, Louisiana" book talk-Bossier City
Abstract: Dr. V. Elaine Thompson, associate professor of history at Louisiana Tech, presented her book, Clinton, Louisiana: Society, Politics, and Race Relations in a Nineteenth Century Southern American Small Town. She also discussed the domestic slave trade and its effects on the state of Louisiana.
Author: Dr. V. Elaine Thompson
Date: 06-26-2017
Location: Bossier Parish Library, 2206 Beckett Street, Bossier City , LA 71111
Primary URL:
http://www.bossierlibrary.org/Help Me to Find My People book discussion-Bossier City (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Help Me to Find My People book discussion-Bossier City
Abstract: Angelique Feaster Evans and the Mahogany Ensemble Theatre present dramatic interpretations of the book Help Me to Find My People. Images, song, and book readings enhanced the performance.
Author: Angelique Feaster Evans
Date: 06-29-2017
Location: Bossier Parish Library, 2206 Beckett Street, Bossier City , LA 71111
Primary URL:
http://www.bossierlibrary.org/Poetry & Plantation History (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Poetry & Plantation History
Abstract: Katie Bickham presented her book of poetry, The Belle Mar, which is set on a fictional Louisiana plantation from 1811 through 2005. She discussed the primary source research that she conducted on several Louisiana plantations that served as the basis for her poetry.
Author: Katie Bickham
Date: 07-10-2017
Location: Bossier Parish Library, 2206 Beckett Street, Bossier City , LA 71111
Primary URL:
http://www.bossierlibrary.org/Many Rivers to Cross Film Viewing - Part 1-Slidell (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Many Rivers to Cross Film Viewing - Part 1-Slidell
Abstract: The Reference Coordinator, Noelle Williams, set up the Slidell Library meeting room with chairs and screened Part 1 of this documentary film. Afterward, she led a discussion with the attendees. She reported that this first screening had a lively discussion that quickly got off topic due to one patron's comments about Black Israelites and Native Americans. Williams' and other audience members were able to guide the group back to the film discussion eventually without too much trouble. Overall, the film was well received. Flyers and PowerPoint slides were made to advertise the program in our library branches. There are large monitors near the check-out (circulation) desks that play a slideshow of upcoming programs. Flyers are displayed in all library branches either on a bulletin board or on a rotating rack in a heavily trafficked area for maximum visibility. After the program was over the meeting room chairs got put away and the DVD was stored for the next week's viewing. Williams said that it seemed the discussion could have lasted even longer because the audience was so into it. Her total time spent at the branch for this program was approximately 3 hours.
Author: Noelle Williams
Date: 12-04-2017
Location: St. Tammany Parish Library, Slidell branch, 555 Robert Blvd. Slidell LA 70458
Primary URL:
https://www.sttammanylibrary.org/locations/18/Opening Reception with Exhibit Curator, Erin Greenwald-Slidell (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Opening Reception with Exhibit Curator, Erin Greenwald-Slidell
Abstract: Ellen John, Adult Programming Assistant and Assistant Project Director, set up the Slidell Library meeting room to seat 20 people because that's how many had registered to attend. She had to pull out more chairs once Greenwald got started because more people showed up to listen. Greenwald gave her speech about the exhibit and how it came to be and why it is important. She fielded questions and comments throughout, but most were saved for the end of her presentation. The audience was so involved in the presentation, they had to be ushered out so the library could close on time. This was the beginning of the wild winter weather so I think even more people would have attended had there not been torrential rain and freezing temperatures predicted for that night. After everyone left the meeting room, remaining refreshments were disposed of and chairs were put away in the storage closet. John's total time spent at the branch for this program was approximately 3 hours.
Author: Erin Greenwald
Date: 12-05-2017
Location: St. Tammany Parish Library, Slidell branch, 555 Robert Blvd. Slidell LA 70458
Primary URL:
https://www.sttammanylibrary.org/locations/18/Through Darkness to Light: Photographs of the Underground Railroad with Photographer, Jeanine Michna-Bales--Slidell (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Through Darkness to Light: Photographs of the Underground Railroad with Photographer, Jeanine Michna-Bales--Slidell
Abstract: Jillian Boudreaux, Adult Programming Coordinator and Project Director, set up the Slidell meeting room to seat 20 people. Presenter and photographer, Michna-Bales drove in from her home in Texas that day and had just enough time to check into her hotel room and get to the library at the program start time. Despite that, she was not frazzled and gave a very nice presentation using a slideshow she had created to display on the large drop-down screen in the meeting room. Those that attended were impressed with her travels and photography knowledge. She shared several anecdotes of the project's process which made her presentation that much richer. At the end of the program, she sold copies of her book, "Through Darkness to Light: Photographs of the Underground Railroad", to those who were interested. Michna-Bales also gifted a copy of her book to the Whitney Plantation to add to their collection, which I still need to mail. Total time spent at this program was 3 hours (includes set up and break down).
Author: Jeanine Michna-Bales
Date: 12-06-2017
Location: St. Tammany Parish Library, Slidell branch, 555 Robert Blvd. Slidell LA 70458
Primary URL:
https://www.sttammanylibrary.org/locations/18/Many Rivers to Cross Film Viewing - Part 2-Slidell (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Many Rivers to Cross Film Viewing - Part 2-Slidell
Abstract: Noelle Williams, the Reference Coordinator, emceed this event in the Slidell Library meeting room. She set up the DVD to play on the screen and put out 20 chairs. Thirteen people showed up to watch the second part of the documentary and a discussion was held afterward. Many of those who had attended the program screening for Part 1 came back to watch Part 2, but there were also several others who hadn't registered for either and just showed up. This time the discussion stayed on topic and was much calmer than the first screening's discussion. After the program was over, Williams put away the chairs in the storage closet and locked up the meeting room. Her total time there was approximately 3 hours for this program.
Author: Noelle Williams
Date: 12-11-2017
Location: St. Tammany Parish Library, Slidell branch, 555 Robert Blvd. Slidell LA 70458
Primary URL:
https://www.sttammanylibrary.org/locations/18/Help Me to Find My People Book Discussion-Slidell (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Help Me to Find My People Book Discussion-Slidell
Abstract: There were two scheduled book discussions for this title, but the first date that was planned got snowed out. There were actually a decent amount of people registered to attend, but I think the weather kept them away from attending this second one. Noelle Williams led a discussion for the people who showed up, and they stayed the entire hour that was scheduled for the program. The discussion questions that were used were the ones provided in the exhibit binder. Participants really enjoyed the book and read it in its entirety. Williams set up chairs and a table for participants to sit around, but since it was just the two of them the program was less formal and more of a visit rather than a formal discussion. After the program, Williams picked up the meeting room and put chairs and tables away before leaving the branch.
Author: Noelle Williams
Date: 12-13-2017
Location: St. Tammany Parish Library, Slidell branch, 555 Robert Blvd. Slidell LA 70458
Primary URL:
https://www.sttammanylibrary.org/locations/18/Virtual Field Trip to the Underground Railroad--Slidell (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Virtual Field Trip to the Underground Railroad--Slidell
Abstract: Samantha Brown, Reference Librarian at Madisonville Library lead this program in the Tech Lab. The room seats 12 people with 12 computers and a large flat screen monitor is on the wall in the front of the room. She displayed the photographer/author Jeanine Michna-Bales' website with images of her book "Through Darkness to Light: Images of the Underground Railroad" on the monitor. While very quiet in the beginning, the audience soon began to talk about what could have happened. Brown read an excerpt at the beginning from the book "To Be a Slave" by Julius Lester to set the tone. Then she led them on a journey through how and why the slaves would have traveled the way they did. she reported that the audience seemed awed by viewing the different landscapes and said it was cool to learn together about the different routes and how individuals were able to move along the routes. It was a serious atmosphere but one well received. Everyone liked the program and enjoyed the experience. Brown incorporated Google Earth and had slave instrumental music playing during parts of the presentation including one song that was used to help guide the slaves along the routes to freedom.
Author: Samantha Brown
Date: 12-14-2017
Location: St. Tammany Parish Library, Slidell branch, 555 Robert Blvd. Slidell LA 70458
Primary URL:
https://www.sttammanylibrary.org/locations/18/The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing Book Discussion for teens-Slidell (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing Book Discussion for teens-Slidell
Abstract: Slidell Teen Librarian, Sandra Rose Bryant led the book discussion with the teens in the teen area of the library. She reported that they were "really into the book" and wanted to read the next one in the series (they read part 1 of 2). The discussion involved several ideas about what was not explicitly said in the book which was fun because they got to talk about theories and character motivation, etc. Bryant explained to the group why we were reading the book, but the discussion was mainly about the book and not the exhibit. The total time that Bryant spent setting up, discussing, and cleaning up was about 2 hours.
Author: Sandra Rose Bryant
Date: 12/18/17
Location: St. Tammany Parish Library, Slidell branch, 555 Robert Blvd. Slidell LA 70458
Primary URL:
https://www.sttammanylibrary.org/locations/18/Many Rivers to Cross Film VIewing - Part 3 - Slidell (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Many Rivers to Cross Film VIewing - Part 3 - Slidell
Abstract: Noelle Williams set up the Slidell meeting room for this final viewing of the DVD. She had a nice group who really enjoyed the film and taking part in the discussion afterward. After the program, Williams' put all of the chairs away in the meeting room storage closet. Everyone was appreciative of her leading the film programs and gave her such comments on their way out. Her total time spent at this program was approximately 3 hours. Discussion questions were pulled from educator websites. They were intended for school-age viewers, but Williams was able to improvise to fit her adult audience. This was the case for all three parts of the film viewing series that we provided for the exhibit.
Author: Noelle Williams
Date: 12/18/17
Location: St. Tammany Parish Library, Slidell branch, 555 Robert Blvd. Slidell LA 70458
Primary URL:
https://www.sttammanylibrary.org/locations/18/Proofs of Purchase: Documenting Enslaved Ancestors with Mr. Jari Honora-Slidell (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Proofs of Purchase: Documenting Enslaved Ancestors with Mr. Jari Honora-Slidell
Abstract: Mr. Honora is a true southern gentleman. People loved his presentation and several have asked me if he can come back and do more. He brought a flash drive preloaded with a presentation on how to find enslaved ancestors and provided several tips on how to get "unstuck" during the research process. It is incredible how many ways there are to find clues while tracing your family history. Jillian Boudreaux, Project Director, set up and broke down for this program in the Slidell Library meeting room. More and more people kept coming in that hadn't registered, so she kept having to get out more chairs from the storage closet. The library provided the laptop projector and screen as well as the podium for Mr. Honora to stand near. It was a full house and a very informative presentation. Boudreaux spent a total of 3 hours working the entire program.
Author: Jari Honora
Date: 1/9/18
Location: St. Tammany Parish Library, Slidell branch, 555 Robert Blvd. Slidell LA 70458
Primary URL:
https://www.sttammanylibrary.org/locations/18/A Journey Through Slavery at the Whitney Plantation with Dr. Ibrahima Seck -Slidell (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: A Journey Through Slavery at the Whitney Plantation with Dr. Ibrahima Seck -Slidell
Abstract: Dr. Ibrahima Seck drove in from Wallace, La to give this presentation at the Slidell Library. This was an
other program with a packed house. A member of the Haydel family (the original owners of the plantation) attended and brought her family tree and some other documents which greatly intrigued Dr. Seck and other members in the audience. Dr. Seck brought a flash drive with a slide tour of a virtual tour of the plantation grounds and explained about the site's history. There were many questions during and after his presentation, and there were also many familiar names mentioned that were also mentioned in Mr. Honora's presentation. After the presentation and Q & A session was over, Dr. Seck stayed around and sold some copies of his book, "Buki Fait Gumbo" and went over the Haydel family tree items with the family member who brought them. Project Director, Jillian Boudreaux, set up and broke down the library meeting room for the program, which totaled approximately 3.5 hours.
Author: Ibrahima Seck
Date: 1/11/18
Location: St. Tammany Parish Library, Slidell branch, 555 Robert Blvd. Slidell LA 70458
Primary URL:
https://www.sttammanylibrary.org/locations/18/Opening Reception for Purchased Lives Exhibit, Presented by Dr. John Keeling, McNeese State University-Lake Charles (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Opening Reception for Purchased Lives Exhibit, Presented by Dr. John Keeling, McNeese State University-Lake Charles
Abstract: "The date of our opening reception was the first day the library system was reopened after three days of closure due to ice. The exhibit's arrival was also pushed back, so the exhibit was not available for viewing. That being said, it was a well attended event, considering a large part of the parish still did not have electricity, the schools were all closed, and several business and other facilities were closed as well. Dr. Keeling gave an overview of the exhibit and gave historical interpretation about the information presented on the panels. People were not upset about the exhibit not being there and lingered for about thirty minutes after discussing the exhibit itself, the upcoming related programs, and, of course, the ice!
The speaker was knowledgeable and was extremely easy to work with. However, he did not interact with the audience at all during the presentation and would not take questions after his presentation. "
Author: John Keeling
Date: 01-18-2018
Location: Calcasieu Parish Central Library, 301 West Claude St.Lake Charles, LA 70605
Primary URL:
https://www.calcasieulibrary.org/resources/exhibits-at-the-library/purchased-lives-the-american-slave-tradeTuesday Night Family Night- Harriet Tubman Fights Slavery-Lake Charles (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Tuesday Night Family Night- Harriet Tubman Fights Slavery-Lake Charles
Abstract: This was a night time family program opened to all families and any other participants. The group watched a brief film on Harriet Tubman, read Freedom in Congo Square by Carole Boston Weatherford and An Apple For Harriet Tubman by Glennette Turner. They then discussed what they thought slavery was and what they would think the best and safest way to escape was. This small (and interesting!) discussion led to the discussion of the legendary freedom quilts. The kids and parents were instructed to make their own patterns on cardstock using color pencils, markers, crayons, or water colors. The children then would have to come up with what their patterns stood for. The plan was to put all the cardstock patterns on a wall to make our own 'quilt' for display near the exhibit. However, the children were so proud of their work, all but one wanted to take theirs home and display it there. The lone one left was displayed.
Author: None
Date: 01-23-2018
Location: Calcasieu Parish Central Library, 301 West Claude St.Lake Charles, LA 70605
Primary URL:
https://www.calcasieulibrary.org/resources/exhibits-at-the-library/purchased-lives-the-american-slave-tradeNaima Johnson Presents: Echoes of My Sisters' Voices-Lake Charles (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Naima Johnson Presents: Echoes of My Sisters' Voices-Lake Charles
Abstract: Dr. Johnson presented a collection, pictures, and historical facts about little known African American women who had an impact on their communities, their country and history. Dr. Johnson, a professional story teller and gospel singer, tied each women to a song or a poem recitation, and then gave an overview of their lives. She talked about the hardships of the lives of African American women both before and after Emancipation. She presented a lot of little known history and was able to give a deeper, more intimate view of the women who experienced slavery. After an hour program, she received 30 minutes of questions; no one left during this time. She interacted with the audience; a rude question was asked about religion and she turned the uncomfortable moment into a discussion about religion, women, and slavery that went on for about ten minutes.
Author: Naima Johnson
Date: 01-31-2018
Location: Calcasieu Parish Central Library, 301 West Claude St.Lake Charles, LA 70605
Primary URL:
https://www.calcasieulibrary.org/resources/exhibits-at-the-library/purchased-lives-the-american-slave-tradeBreaking Through The Brick Wall, presented by Jari Honora. (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Breaking Through The Brick Wall, presented by Jari Honora.
Abstract: Jari came and spoke about breaking through brick walls in African-American genealogy. The program was attended by five people, however, it is likely that the heavy rain Lake Charles experienced that day significantly affected turnout. Jari completed his program and stayed for an additional 20-30 minutes answering questions from some of the attendees. Our Genealogy staff was impressed with the depth and breadth of his knowledge and have discussed bringing him back next year for a spring workshop. Presented at the Southwest Genealogy Library located at the Carnegie Memorial Library branch
Author: Jari Honora
Date: 02-10-2018
Location: Southwest Genealogy Library, Carnegie Memorial Library branch, 411 Pujo St, Lake Charles, LA 70601
Primary URL:
https://www.calcasieulibrary.org/resources/exhibits-at-the-library/purchased-lives-the-american-slave-tradeCentral Library Book Club- Help Me Find My People by Heather Williams-Lake Charles (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Central Library Book Club- Help Me Find My People by Heather Williams-Lake Charles
Abstract: "We had 3 come to the book club; we attribute the low attendance to the minor flooding in Lake Charles that day and the previous day. We discussed how slavery was a stain on American history, and how books like Help Me to Find My People remind us that the desire to form family units, the desire to connect with family, and the desire to strengthen family bonds are universal, and is a large part of what makes all of us human. We discussed the impact of slavery in Louisiana, and how the book dispels the myth that slavery in Louisiana was ""relatively gentle"", and we discussed how we dealt with the repercussions of slavery in the 1800s and how we're still dealing today. The book was a tough read for everyone, but everyone felt like it was an important read, and everyone felt enlightened in some way after the reading.
We checked out all thirty books ordered; one African American women's church group checked out ten for their book club. Several more people emailed me their opinions of the books and their ideas of how it tied to today. Not everyone who checked the book out wanted to attend the physical book club, but there is a lot of interest in the book and we have 17 people on the waiting list for it. "
Author: None
Date: 02-21-2018
Location: Calcasieu Parish Central Library, 301 West Claude St.Lake Charles, LA 70605
Primary URL:
https://www.calcasieulibrary.org/resources/exhibits-at-the-library/purchased-lives-the-american-slave-tradeMovie and Discussion- Slavery By Another Name-Lake Charles (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Movie and Discussion- Slavery By Another Name-Lake Charles
Abstract: This event was held at the Epps Memorial Library Branch. They showed the PBS special, Slavery by Another Name, served refreshments and hosted a discussion afterwards. The discussion was about the movie content and then delved into a discussion about how Jim Crow and segregation still continues in various forms today. The branch was happy to see 3 children attended this event and they had input about racial experiences in their young lives.
Author: None
Date: 02-22-2018
Location: Epps Memorial Library Branch, 1320 N Simmons St, Lake Charles, LA 70601
Primary URL:
https://www.calcasieulibrary.org/resources/exhibits-at-the-library/purchased-lives-the-american-slave-tradeWomen and Slavery-Lake Charles (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Women and Slavery-Lake Charles
Abstract: r. Janet Allured of McNeese State University presented a program about the lives and conditions of female slaves. It presented in a classroom lecture setting, with people encouraged to ask questions throughout the program and information was presented with historical interpretation. She used different slave narratives as primary source materials and reads excerpts from these to strengthen her presentation. This was our best received program; Dr. Allured is very popular in the community and was an excellent speaker.
Author: Janet Allured
Date: 2/5/2018
Location: Calcasieu Parish Central Library, 301 West Claude St.Lake Charles, LA 70605
Primary URL:
https://www.calcasieulibrary.org/resources/exhibits-at-the-library/purchased-lives-the-american-slave-tradeMovie and Discussion- Twelve Years A Slave-Lake Charles (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Movie and Discussion- Twelve Years A Slave-Lake Charles
Abstract: This event was hosted by the Epps Memorial Library. They played the movie, Twelve Years A Slave, provided refreshments, and then held a discussion after the movie. Although low attendance, this was a great dialogue about the often white-washed version of slavery portrayed in history and how modern media is changing that.
Author: None
Date: 2/8/2018
Location: Epps Memorial Library branch, Calcasieu Parish Central Library system, 1320 N Simmons St, Lake Charles, LA 70601
Primary URL:
https://www.calcasieulibrary.org/resources/exhibits-at-the-library/purchased-lives-the-american-slave-trade"Purchased Lives: the American Slave Trade from 1808 to 1865" (panel version) (Exhibition)Title: "Purchased Lives: the American Slave Trade from 1808 to 1865" (panel version)
Curator: Erin Greenwald
Abstract: Purchased Lives explores the far-reaching economic and heartbreaking personal impact of the domestic slave trade. Period broadsides, paintings, and prints illustrate the trade's public image, while objects and first-person accounts--including that of Solomon Northup, who spent twelve years illegally enslaved in Louisiana--speak to the experiences of those whose lives were bought and sold. Curated and originally hosted by The Historic New Orleans Collection with the subtitle New Orleans and the Domestic Slave Trade, 1808-1865,, this exhibition traveled to three additional sites between summer 2016 and summer 2017: the Alexandria Museum of Art in Alexandria, Louisiana (June 3-August 20, 2016); National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, Tennessee (September 12-November 27, 2016); and the Bullock Texas State History Museum in Austin, Texas (February 11-July 9, 2017).
Year: 2016
Primary URL:
https://www.hnoc.org/exhibitions/offsite#purchasedlivesPrimary URL Description: Page on THNOC's website discussing panel exhibition and it's upcoming travels.
Why History Matters (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Why History Matters
Abstract: This inaugural public conversation provided context for the overall exhibition and associated series of programs at Xavier University of Louisiana. Drs. Erin Greenwald and Sharlene Sinegal-DeCuir engaged in a lively discussion of the exhibition's origins, outlining the history of the domestic slave trade particularly from the Upper South regions to that of the Deep South, primarily Virginia to Louisiana. The historians were able to discuss the history of slavery in the United States, discuss the domestic slave trade, the legacy of slavery in regards to current events that are consciously or unconsciously connected to the concept of "race" in America. In the latter part, this allowed the conversation, comprised of both the historians as featured participants and the audience, to discuss how much history is known in contemporary society, why it is important to know history, the place of New Orleans as a major slave market during the domestic slave trade and the city's rich history/heritage. The discussion sparked curiosity about the exhibition and about the topics scheduled for subsequent sessions.
Author: None
Date: 1/22/2019
Location: Xavier University of Louisiana Library, 7525 Dixon St., New Orleans, LA 70125
Primary URL:
https://www.xula.edu/singleArticle?articleId=news___article___purchased_livesThe Role of Journalism: The Black Press (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: The Role of Journalism: The Black Press
Abstract: This session focused on both the origins of the black press and its role in the African American and African Diaspora community. The featured participants, Renette Dejoie-Hall (Publisher, the Louisiana Weekly; the oldest continuously publishing black-owned newspaper in Louisiana), Anitra Brown (Managing Editor, the New Orleans Tribune), Shearon Roberts (Xavier faculty specializing in journalism) were the featured speakers. Also joining the conversation as an audience member was Beverly McKenna, Publisher of the New Orleans Tribune. The session moved from a conversation highlighting the history of the press' role in the African American community to the need for cooperation and collective effort in current times amongst African American-centered organizations. The conversation was fluid, dynamic, highly informative, and the session ran approximately two hours instead of the scheduled ninety minutes. This point is important to note because the attendance was terribly low. This was the evening of the freezing temperatures and weather warnings which proved a deterrent to people leaving their homes and campus members venturing out as well.
Author: None
Date: 1/29/2019
Location: Xavier University of Louisiana Library, 7525 Dixon St., New Orleans, LA 70125
Primary URL:
https://www.xula.edu/singleArticle?articleId=news___article___purchased_livesThe Importance of Slave Narratives (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: The Importance of Slave Narratives
Abstract: This session partnered two scholars of early African American literature who were at different points in their careers. Dr. Jerry Ward, retired distinguished professor joined Dr. Jimmy Worthy, new assistant professor of Xavier University's English Department. More than any other session in the series, this discussion was the most academic in terms of content and delivery. Both professors provided exhaustive overviews that infused history, close readings of references from slave autobiographies, and literary theory. The early part of the discussion seemed more like an academic conference amongst peers rather than a public discussion. Nonetheless, the immense knowledge that both scholars brought to their opening comments were well received. It was apparent that both Drs. Ward and Worthy possessed an exhaustive knowledge of the antebellum era, literary works and authors, literary conventions often found in slave narratives, and that each genuinely enjoyed studying/researching the topic. This last point is what allowed nonacademic audience members to remain invested in the session. Each scholar's enthusiasm for studying slave narratives was infectious.
Author: None
Date: 2/5/2019
Location: Xavier University of Louisiana Library, 7525 Dixon St., New Orleans, LA 70125
Primary URL:
https://www.xula.edu/singleArticle?articleId=news___article___purchased_livesA Conversation in Words and Music (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: A Conversation in Words and Music
Abstract: At the midpoint of the series, programming shifted in week four to expand how audiences might engage, interpret, and analyze their experiences in viewing the exhibition. We moved the event from its regular location in the library to the St. Katharine Drexel Chapel, a space conducive for contemplation and reflection. We moved the exhibition panels to the chapel entryway so that audiences engaged them walking into the sanctuary. The tabernacle had been removed so that the space became more inclusive for non-Catholics/Christians. By far, this was the largest group of participants in the series: Sr. Eva Marie Lumas, interim director, Institute of Black Catholic studies; Drs. Wilfred Delphin, Marcus Ballard, and Prof. Joy Meade of Xavier's Music Department; Prof. James Shade of Xavier's English and Creative Writing Program; Dr. Valerie Francis of Nicholls State University; and Dr. Robin G. Vander, Project Director. Each featured participants analyzed the exhibition and panels and identified their respective entry point into a conversation responding to the exhibition. Delphin, Ballard, Meade, and Francis used music, instrumental and vocal, in responding to the exhibition. Shade discussed the exhibitions content in relation to how cinema attempts to illustrate the African American experience. Dr. Vander used excerpts from Toni Morrison's novel Beloved to reflect upon the African American experience in slavery. Sr Eva Marie Lumas provided personal and theoretical insights into the exhibition and the African American experience.
Author: None
Date: 2/12/2019
Location: St. Katharine Drexel Chapel, 1 Drexel Drive, New Orleans, LA 70125
Primary URL:
https://www.xula.edu/singleArticle?articleId=news___article___purchased_livesGenealogy/Research Family Histories (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: Genealogy/Research Family Histories
Abstract: This event pivoted the series from objective engagement of the exhibition to providing audience members with viable information for researching their family origins and histories. The event featured historian Dr. Wendy Gaudin and professional genealogist Jari Honora. The event was extremely well-balanced in the style and content delivery. Dr. Gaudin shared family photographs and oral histories as aids in discussing the reasons for researching her family history, how race factored into research, her personal feelings upon learning her family's history, and the different ways she has produced outcomes based upon the research. Mr. Honora offered relatable measures for researching family histories: photographs, letters, vital records, correspondences, employment records, and land records, among others.
Author: None
Date: 2/19/2019
Location: Xavier University of Louisiana Library, 7525 Dixon St., New Orleans, LA 70125
Primary URL:
https://www.xula.edu/singleArticle?articleId=news___article___purchased_livesAfrican American Legacies and the Human Spirit (Public Lecture or Presentation)Title: African American Legacies and the Human Spirit
Abstract: The concluding session of the series attempted to extend the first session's topic, "Why History Matters," by considering what place history maintains in our contemporary understandings of race and slavery's legacy—and to help us understand how the human spirit endures despite prolonged struggle and the institutionalized inequality/inequities. This session featured Dr. David Robinson-Morris, director of Xavier University's Center for Equity, Justice, and the Human Spirit; arts educator and cultural historian Freddi Evans; communications and marketing professional Laura Tennyson; and historian Leon Waters. The featured participants discussed their respective work in producing and promoting accurate information about African American history in Louisiana. All of the community partners expressed concern that African American history is often presented through the lens of tourism and doesn't wholly engage the black experience in ways that are balanced, accurate, or probative.
Author: None
Date: 2/26/2019
Location: Xavier University of Louisiana Library, 7525 Dixon St., New Orleans, LA 70125
Primary URL:
https://www.xula.edu/singleArticle?articleId=news___article___purchased_livesLost Friends database (expanded) (Web Resource)Title: Lost Friends database (expanded)
Author: Diane Plauche, Andy Forester, and THNOC staff
Abstract: Two dollars in 1880 bought a yearlong subscription to the Southwestern Christian Advocate, a newspaper published in New Orleans by the Methodist Book Concern and distributed to nearly 500 preachers, 800 post offices, and more than four thousand subscribers in Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Arkansas. The "Lost Friends" column, which ran from the paper's 1877 inception well into the first decade of the 20th century, featured messages from individuals searching for loved ones lost in slavery.
Begun in 2015, the database nearly doubled in size during the grant period. It traveled with the "Purchased Lives" exhibition (both object-based and panel versions). In its current form, the database provides access to 2,450 advertisements that appeared in the Advocate between November 1879 and November 1896. Digital reproductions of the Lost Friends advertisements are courtesy of Louisiana State University Libraries Special Collections, Hill Memorial Library.
Year: 2018
Primary URL:
https://www.hnoc.org/database/lost-friends/index.html